Pupils, parents and swimming professionals in Bath are being invited to nominate a local swimming teacher, who has gone the extra mile and shown dedication and care through their teaching.
The local winner will then be put forward to a national final, to be held at the prestigious London 2012 Olympic venue the London Aquatics Centre, in the autumn.
A selection of prizes will be on offer to both regional and national winners, including a range of swimming paraphernalia such as towels, goggles, bags, swimsuits and snorkels along with vouchers towards continuing professional development and training.
Better is the biggest provider of swimming lessons in the UK, employing over 1,400 swimming teachers and running more than 18,100 swimming lessons each week.
In Bath and North East Somerset, Better runs swimming programmes at Bath Sports and Leisure Centre, Culverhay Leisure Centre and Keynsham Leisure Centre. Keynsham Leisure Centre’s pool is due to close in the near future for a major refurbishment to improve the facility.
The Swimming Teacher of the Year Award is also being supported by the Swimming Teacher’s Association (STA) and Speedo, representatives of whom will make up part of the final judging panel.
Nominations are open until 30th June, and can be made online at https://www.better.org.uk/swimming-teacher-awards.
Daniel Arnamnart, Better’s National Aquatics Project Manager said: “As the UK’s largest employer of swimming teachers, we felt it was only right to recognise the amazing work that they undertake, teaching people of all ages and abilities to swim.
“Drowning remains the third highest cause of accidental death of children in the UK, so teaching this crucial life skill is genuinely important.
“We urge anyone who has been inspired, enthused or encouraged by their swimming teacher to make a nomination and ensure their efforts are acknowledged.”
